Whatever you think of Ireland or Europe as a whole (as many people in today’s international world consider them boring places to travel to) you can’t deny that the Aran Islands are breathtakingly beautiful. Out of everywhere in Ireland, they are arguably the most interesting and incredible place to visit; the thing that makes them so great beyond their stunning natural landscapes and unrivalled Atlantic views is the fact they are cheap to get to and stay on. If you are planning a visit to the Aran Islands but are worried about transport, this post has you covered. Here is a luxury travel guide you can use to get around on them:
Travelling There
The first thing that you need to think about as far as transportation is concerned is actually getting to the Aran Islands. Most people avoid the other islands that make up the chain and focus on visiting Inis Mor, the largest and biggest of them. Getting to Inis Mor is relatively simple and won’t take a lot of time; you can get there directly from Doolin via ferry. Before travelling to Doolin do your research and find out when the ferries leave and arrive. You will be able to time your hotel bookings and transport to Doolin more effectively if you know what the schedule of the ferry is. You should be able to find out what the schedule for the ferry is by doing a little bit of online research.
Renting Vehicle
In terms of travelling around the Aran Islands there is no need for a car. In fact, some would argue that having a car would actually be a detriment to your enjoyment. It’s a lot easier to rely on the public transport network which for a remote island chain is very good and your own two feet; there are an almost endless amount of walking trails circling the main island of Inis Mor and many others on the other islands. Renting a vehicle is only a good idea if you are going to be travelling from the airport to Doolin directly.
Walking Around
As mentioned in the last paragraph you do not need to have a vehicle to get around the Aran Islands because you can walk. Walking trails circle Inis Mor and the other islands. If you do plan on hiking around then make sure that you stick to marked trails and do not trespass. While trespassing is not a serious offence in Ireland by any means it can still get you in trouble and ruin your trip. You can buy a map with marked walking trails on it online or in one of the island’s many gift shops.
Hiring a Bicycle
Another entertaining way of getting around the Aran Islands is by hiring a bicycle and riding. Not only is cycling an activity that can strengthen your body and boost your physical fitness but it can also improve your mental health. Studies indicate that people who cycle on a regular basis tend to be in much better mental health than people who do not. If you are planning on hiring a bicycle then make sure that you get it from a reputable island vendor. Ride safely and ensure that you do not get in anybody’s way or behave recklessly.
Island Hopping
Most people who visit the Aran Islands go purely to see Inis Mor. On Inis Mor, there are some ancient monuments, a World Heritage site and some great local museums, cafés and restaurants. However, there is a lot more to the Aran Islands than just its largest island. If you want to truly experience everything the Aran Islands has to offer then visit the smaller ones too. You can take a ferry between the islands or even charter a private boat to run you across. Chartering a private boat is one of the easiest strategies for getting around.
Exploring Ireland
While the Aran Islands are fascinating so is Ireland. If you are visiting for the first time just to see the Aran Islands then make sure that you explore everything else the nation has to offer. Many of Ireland’s rural areas are in dire need of tourism so visiting them is a good way to contribute to the local economy and experience true, unadulterated Irish culture. Exploring Ireland is something you will never forget regardless of how many other places you have been. Do not overlook Ireland’s offerings; it is a nation that has shaped the world in many ways and as such deserves your admiration.
Visiting the Aran Islands is a dream for many people. If it is yours then why not turn it into a reality? Visiting the Aran Islands is a straightforward and simple process that can be done on a shoestring budget. Plan your trip meticulously so that you extract as much enjoyment from it as you can.